HIRING A WEDDING PLANNER 

There are several key thoughts to keep in mind when you begin to consider hiring a wedding planner. If you follow these suggestions and do your due diligence, you will greatly increase the likelihood of having the wedding of your dreams. And even if something doesn’t go according to plan, you will have a skilled advocate to see that things get back on track without disrupting your day.

1. Why hire a wedding planner?

2. How do I go about hiring a wedding planner?

3. What questions should I ask before hiring a wedding planner?

4. What is the most important quality to look for when hiring a wedding planner?

Why hire a wedding planner?

1. A wedding planner is your professional advocate that helps you get organized, stay organized and answer any questions you have about the wedding planning process.

2. Time is a valuable commodity and a wedding planner will save you a lot of time.

3. Scheduling vendors, venue visits, contract negotiations, etc.

4. Wedding planners offer guidance on where to focus your resources based on what your vision is for your wedding. Wedding planners will show you how to spend your money wisely to get the most value.

• Five services why couples hire a wedding planner

1. Venue search which can comprise up to 50% or more of your total budget. One of the most important aspects in terms of cost, scheduling, etc. (May charge a minimal fee or may charge based on a commission.)

2. Vendor searches (photographer, florists, musicians, etc). Most planners have a group of wedding pros they work with and understand how to match personality, budget and skill level. You should realize time and money savings by using a planner

3. Stationary products i.e. invitations, save the date cards, programs, menu cards, table cards, escort cards, welcome signs, etc.

4. Guest accommodations and travel arrangements. Hotel blocks, welcome baskets, brunches, rehearsal dinners, entertainment, directions, transportation.

5. Day of coordination for the wedding. Wedding day management. Are there contingencies for emergencies. Are there backups for vendors? How much experience do you have? This is a luxury item that provides a kind of insurance and peace of mind on your wedding day. This is a time consuming service that is relatively expensive, but very valuable. Good coordinators are typically 6 months in advance. Have your day of coordinator booked 4-6 months in advance.

How to hire a wedding planner?

1. Interview at least three wedding planners. Each meeting will last 30-60 minutes.

2. Research via personal referrals, professional referrals and the internet.

3. Knowledge and experience, guidance and customized advice based on your input are important considerations.

4. Look for a positive rapport with you wedding planner.

What questions to ask.

1. Is the person you interview going to be your wedding planner?

2. Are there other people that you’ll be working with?

3. How much experience do you have?

4. How do you make money? (Commissions? Fee?)

5. What is your preferred method to communicate?

6. How often can and will we meet?

7. Are there time limits on responses for information?

8. What responsibilities will you handle? Full service planning or day of coordinator?

How to choose the right wedding planner for you.

1. Do you trust the planner to represent your interests and make (some) decisions for you?

2. Expect to spend roughly 10-20% of your budget.

3. Meet the person who will be directly responsible for planning your wedding.

4. Make sure you have a good rapport with your planner and that you trust them.

Hiring a wedding planner may not work for everyone, but it may work for you!